How to Write for the Web

Tips for Writing Web-based Articles

Writing for the Web works best when it is scannable. The following tips will help make your articles scannable and ready for the Web.

Use Headings

Headings and sub-headings are important for emphasizing key points in the article. Search engines place a great deal of weight on headings when indexing the page.

Use Lists

• Web users love lists!
• Lists help section off important points.
• Lists make the content scannable.
• Most of the articles that are popular in social bookmarking sites use some form of list within the article.

Use Bold and Italics

Emphasize key points within paragraphs and lists by using bold and italic formatting.

Use Active Verbs

Tell the reader how to respond to the content. People who read your articles consider you an authority by default. They want your advice so give it to them. Using an active voice with active verbs clearly tells them what their role is as a reader.

Use Internal Links

Linking to pages within our site structure adds relevancy to your article and gives the user a “next step.”

Keep it Short and Simple

400-800 words is enough to give the reader an idea of what you are saying. This is not a doctoral dissertation; it is only a chunk of information. Short sentences and short paragraphs help to keep it simple and scannable.

Use a Conversational Tone

Write directly to the reader in a conversational tone. Using a conversational tone keeps things friendly and open.